Iowans haven't seen this many fireflies in over a decade
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Fireflies at Walnut Woods. Photo: Courtesy of Eric Burson Photography
Step outside in Iowa and you'll notice a plethora of fireflies shining in backyards and along county highways.
Why it matters: They're a quintessential part of our Midwest summers, but there's been growing concern about their decline.
State of play: Fireflies in Iowa experienced the "perfect" reproducing conditions last year and this year, contributing to their recent pop off, says Zach Schumm, an ISU insect diagnostician.
- Iowa's years of drought were hard on them, but a milder winter and spring rainfall have helped their larvae.
- The rain also increases their food sources, like snails, slugs and worms.
- "I've not seen this many fireflies in over a decade," Schumm says, who previously lived in Maryland.
Zoom in: There are 270 firefly species in North America, and it's hard to know which ones are in Iowa, Schumm says.
- It's also hard to forecast when it will be a good year for them.
The big picture: In general, firefly populations have declined over the last 100 years, said Megan Abraham, division director and state entomologist at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
- While certain species may face more dwindling populations due to habitat loss, Schumm doesn't expect Iowa's population to go anywhere anytime soon.
- "It's funny because earlier this year we were getting a lot of news articles that we might be the last generation to see fireflies, but somehow the perfect conditions were created for reproduction last year into this year," he says.
The intrigue: While Des Moines didn't spray for mosquitoes this year, Schumm says he doesn't expect a direct correlation between that and the increase in fireflies, since they're prevalent across Iowa.
Where to go: Your own neighborhood is a good spot to view them!
- If you want to be surrounded by thousands of fireflies, grab a flashlight (with a red light if you have it) and head into the trails at Walnut Woods.
Linh's thought bubble: A special spot is Hooper Pond near Indianola. I saw them there a couple of years back and felt like I was in a Disney movie.
What's next: This year's abundant batch will hopefully reproduce and continue large populations into next year, Schumm says.
- Expect to see them until late August to early September.